Dimitar Berbatov who already knows what working with Igor Tudor entails tells fans exactly what to expect
Former Tottenham striker Dimitar Berbatov has previously offered an intriguing assessment of Igor Tudor, giving Tottenham Hotspur supporters a clearer indication of what they can expect from their new head coach. With Tudor arriving without prior Premier League experience, many fans are understandably unsure about the impact he will make in north London.
Tudor was appointed earlier this month on a deal running until the end of the season, with the immediate objective of dragging Spurs clear of the relegation zone. The club’s decision to part ways with Thomas Frank came after a worrying slide down the table, as results continued to deteriorate and the threat of relegation became increasingly real. Now, the Croatian faces the daunting task of restoring confidence and momentum in a short space of time.
His tenure begins with a baptism of fire, as Spurs prepare to face fierce rivals Arsenal in the Premier League. Not only will Tudor be desperate to make a positive first impression, but Tottenham will also be aiming to disrupt Arsenal’s title ambitions, adding further intensity to an already heated north London derby.
Berbatov, who worked under Tudor during their time together at PAOK, once described him as a driven and highly motivated coach whose training sessions reflected a strong work ethic. The Bulgarian noted that Tudor’s approach mirrors a traditional Italian coaching style — something that makes sense given his lengthy playing career at Juventus. That comparison may spark mixed reactions among Spurs fans, particularly after their recent experience under Antonio Conte.
Tactically, Tudor often deploys a back-three system, favouring formations such as 3-4-2-1 or 3-4-1-2. His teams are known for their vertical, aggressive football, prioritising quick transitions and direct forward passes rather than patient, possession-heavy build-up play. Wing-backs are crucial in providing width, while inside forwards operate between the lines to create central overloads.
Defensively, Tudor’s sides typically adopt a high-intensity, man-oriented pressing structure. They defend on the front foot, commit players aggressively into duels and look to win the ball back quickly to sustain pressure in the opposition half. If Berbatov’s description proves accurate, Tottenham fans can expect energy, intensity and a clear tactical identity as Tudor attempts to steady the ship during a pivotal period for the club.